Suno and BMG Strike Licensing Deal; Announce Industry-Backed AI Model

Suno, the largest AI music company, and BMG, the independent music company referred to as the “fourth major,” have announced a new multi-level partnership. One element of the partnership is a licensing deal that will encompass “BMG’s recorded and music publishing repertoire.” Another is a new music model from Suno “developed in partnership with the music industry.”

Background:

• Following a verdict in a German court finding Suno guilty of copyright infringement, the company shared a blog post with its operating principles.

• This post discussed models being developed alongside the industry.

The deal:

• Suno’s announcement states that BMG artists and songwriters can choose whether to participate in the partnership.

• Those who do opt in will “have their rights protected” and be “compensated for their music.”

What they said:

• Mikey Shulman, Suno Co-Founder and CEO: “We believe the future of music will be more participatory, creating entirely new ways for artists and fans to connect. Building that future responsibly means working directly with the people who make music and the companies that represent them. Together with BMG, we can develop new experiences that give artists and songwriters real choice, generate new revenue, and make music a bigger part of people’s lives.”

• Celine Joshua, EVP, Global Marketing & Streaming, BMG: “The future of AI in music will be defined by whether artists and songwriters remain at the center of the opportunity and share in the value it creates. Choice is the guiding principle. This agreement establishes strong protections, clear economics, and new creative possibilities for artists and their fans. As we enter the era of creation, we look forward to shaping that future together with our creators and Suno.”